Beta-M

Soviet RTGs in dismantled and vandalized condition, powered by Strontium-90 90Sr.

Some Soviet era lighthouses and beacons were unique, as they were powered by radioisotope thermoelectric generators called the Beta-M. It was capable of generating 10 watts of electricity, almost enough to power a compact fluorescent light bulb with light output equivalent to a 60 watt bulb. Those generators are still in use and are well past the point at which they should be retired and recycled, prompting environmental safety concerns.

See also

External links

This article is issued from Wikipedia - version of the Tuesday, March 01, 2016. The text is available under the Creative Commons Attribution/Share Alike but additional terms may apply for the media files.